If you’re a fan of pop tarts and want to take your homemade baking to the next level, Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts are the perfect recipe for you. Combining the nostalgic comfort of a traditional pop tart with the tangy, complex flavor that only sourdough can provide, this recipe creates a buttery, flaky pastry filled with a warm brown sugar-cinnamon filling and topped with a luscious glaze. Whether you use sourdough discard or an active starter, this recipe is versatile and can be scaled up or down for your baking needs. This small-batch, bakery-level recipe delivers a delightful pastry experience that will take you back to childhood, but with a sophisticated twist.
What Are Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts?
Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts are a gourmet spin on the classic pop tart we all know and love. By incorporating sourdough into the pastry, you add a tangy, complex layer of flavor that makes the filling even more indulgent. These pop tarts are rich in taste, with a crispy outer layer and a sweet, cinnamon-laden filling. They are glazed with a sweet brown sugar glaze, giving them that finishing touch that elevates them from a simple breakfast treat to something special.
The Origin of Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts
The idea behind Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts is to marry the simplicity of a childhood favorite with the flavors of artisanal baking. Traditional pop tarts were introduced in the early 1960s as a quick, convenient snack. They became a household name, thanks to their portability and ease of use. Over the years, pop tarts have been adapted to many flavors and variations, and this sourdough version is an homage to the classics, incorporating the age-old tradition of sourdough bread making for a modern twist. It brings together the comforting elements of nostalgia with the craft of sourdough baking, creating a more nuanced, satisfying treat.
Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts Recipe
Yield: 6 large pop tarts
Prep Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 1½ hours
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Pastry
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ cup (113 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup (120 g) sourdough discard or starter (100% hydration)
- 2–3 tbsp ice water, as needed
For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tsp water
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: extra cinnamon for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Make the Sourdough Pastry
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with a few pea-sized pieces.
- Stir in the sourdough discard and 1–2 tbsp ice water, adding more as needed until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough lightly until it just comes together — avoid overworking it.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, salt, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and sandy in texture. Set this aside for later use.
3. Assemble the Pop Tarts
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle (about ⅛ inch thick).
- Cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles (roughly 3×4.5 inches each).
- Arrange 6 rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon about 1 heaping tablespoon of filling into the center of each rectangle, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.
- Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash, then place another rectangle of dough on top.
- Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Poke a few small holes in the top of each pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Chill Again
Place the assembled pop tarts in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chilling the dough again ensures a flakier pastry when baked.
5. Bake
Brush the tops of the pop tarts with the egg wash and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
6. Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Once the pop tarts have cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top of each.
- Allow the glaze to set for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Extra flaky tip: To create even more layers in the pastry, fold and roll the dough once or twice before chilling.
- Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder or maple syrup to the filling for a unique depth of flavor.
- Fruit version: Swap the brown sugar cinnamon filling for strawberry jam or apple butter for a fruity alternative.
- Make ahead: You can freeze unbaked pop tarts and bake them directly from frozen. Just add 5 extra minutes to the bake time for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter. Just ensure it’s at 100% hydration for the best results.
How do I store leftover pop tarts?
Store your pop tarts at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven for the best texture.
Can I make these pop tarts gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, though the texture and flakiness might differ slightly from the original recipe.
Can I freeze unbaked pop tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pop tarts. Bake them directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
These Sourdough Brown Sugar Pop Tarts are a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. The sourdough adds a delightful tang, while the brown sugar cinnamon filling and sweet glaze make for a decadent treat. Whether you’re baking them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or to impress guests, these homemade pop tarts will surely stand out. With a little patience and a few simple ingredients, you can create a bakery-level delight right in your own kitchen. Enjoy this fun, flavorful twist on a classic pastry, and watch your family and friends devour them in no time!
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